Summer Camp Counselor positions are no easy feat. The days can be long and sometimes trying, especially when working with a mix of children of different ages, stages, and with unique behaviors. There are plenty of rewards, too, however, with activities and trips that bring out your inner child. 
  
The day may start with a briefing with other staff members or coordinating and scheduling daily activities. You could oversee a group of kids for the day or have more specific responsibilities like leading arts and crafts, sports activities, or nature hikes. There are essential duties, too, like monitoring activities for safety, providing counsel and advice to campers, and assessing situations for potential emergencies.  
  
Since they sometimes happen, in an emergency, a Summer Camp Counselor should remain calm and take charge of the situation. They should assess the situation and make sure that all campers are safe. If necessary, they should call for help and coordinate with other staff members to ensure everyone is accounted for and safe. 
  
Regardless of your role, being a Summer Camp Counselor means being patient, encouraging, and having lots of energy to help make camp a memorable experience for all campers. 

Roles and responsibilities of a Summer Camp Counselor
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of everyday tasks Summer Camp Counselors are required to complete: 

• Brief with other staff members. 
• Coordinate and schedule recreational and other types of activities.  
• Take attendance and monitor the list to ensure all parties are accounted for. 
• Discuss rules and regulations daily.  
• Make accommodations for campers with special needs.  
• Greet new campers as they arrive at the facilities. 
• Introduce campers to each other and staff members.  
• Explain facility rules and safety procedures.  
• Greet parents and guardians.  
• Answer all questions and inquiries directly and politely.  
• Manage the operation of recreational facilities.  
• Explain safety rules and procedures. 
• Demonstrate and supervise the intended use of equipment.  
• Monitor campers to ensure their safety.  
• Enforce safety procedures and regulations.  
• Assess emergencies promptly.  
• Administer first aid as necessary.  
• Contact medical assistance when required.  
• Organize and lead activities for campers.  
• Explain the rules of a game or recreational activity and divide campers into teams when needed.  
• Promote participation and encourage teamwork among campers.  
• Supervise the proper development of the activity.  
• Provide individual counsel and support to each camper.  
• Monitor each camper’s individual development.  
• Interact positively with campers and provide daily encouragement.